Out of the Ashes

The Buried Village is New Zealand's most visited Archaeological Site, where stories of the 1886 Mt Tarawera Eruption come to life.

Te Wairoa was established by the Christian missionary in 1848 as a model village, but survived for fewer
than 40 years before it, and the nearby Pink and White Terraces were obliterated by the eruption of Mt Tarawera.

VISION

To be NZ’s #1 visited working archaeological centre-of-excellence for future generations, showcasing stories and displays of the Pink and White Terraces, the 1886 Eruption of Mt Tarawera, and the resulting devastation of Te Wairoa - The Buried Village

Opening Hours

The Buried Village is open 7 days a week, all year around. We only close on Christmas Day.

Hours of Operation

Summer

October – February

9.00am – last entry 5.00pm

Winter

March – September

9.00am – last entry 4.30pm

At closing time visitors are welcome to continue their visit and exit at their leisure.